Encephalitis

Definition

Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain. The inflammation may involve the whole brain or just parts of the brain. Encephalitis may just occur in individuals (sporadic) or may affect many people in a particular area (epidemic).

Encephalitis

Causes

Encephalitis is most often caused by a viral infection. In the United States, the most common cause of sporadic encephalitis is the
herpes simplex virus
(HSV). Epidemic causes of encephalitis are usually
mosquito-
or tick-borne viruses.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.